Bouna Coundoul Called Up For World Cup Qualifiers

COMMERCE CITY CO. – Colorado Rapids goalkeeper Bouna Coundoul has been named to the Senegal National Team for the first group round of World Cup qualifying in Africa.

"I am excited to once again represent my nation Coundoul said. "I am going to Senegal to try and be the starter."

Coundoul will leave the Rapids following Saturday night’s game against Chivas USA and is expected to return before Colorado travels to Columbus where Coundoul made his professional debut on June 28.

Senegal is in Group 6 with Algeria Liberia and Gambia. The Lions of Teranga will host Algeria on May 31 play at Gambia on June 8 and at Liberia on the 15 before hosting the Liberians on the 21. The final two games of the group stage will be played in September and October.

The 12 group winners and eight best runners-up will advance to the second group round where the teams will be split into five groups of four. The winners of those five groups will join South Africa the host nation in the 2010 World Cup.

This season Coundoul has played in every minute for the Rapids. He is currently tied for third among MLS goalies with a 1.13 goals-against average and is tied for first with four shutouts.

Senegal may be best known for their 1-0 upset of France in the opening game of the 2002 World Cup. That team made it to the quarterfinals where they lost to Turkey in extra time.

The Lions of Teranga are currently ranked no. 38 in the FIFA Rankings and are the fifth highest ranked African team.